Senate advances bill to allow state agencies to host third‑party on‑site childcare

Senator Escamilla described first substitute House Bill 167 as a legislative tool to help address Utah’s childcare shortage by creating a process for state agencies to host on‑site childcare centers for employees. The sponsor said the bill only contemplates third‑party subcontracted providers operating inside agency facilities; it does not create new full‑time state employee childcare staff or require agencies to run centers directly.

"This bill is specifically talks only about a third party childcare center that will be inside the facility, but it will be all subcontracted. And there will be no state employees involved, no more FTEs for the state of Utah," Escamilla said.

The bill lays out a process for agencies to engage with an independent provider and sets expectations about how the relationship will function. Sponsor remarks framed the bill as one tool among many to improve access to childcare for state employees and to provide statutory clarity for agencies exploring on‑site options.

Floor action

The floor advanced HB167 to third reading; the clerk announced 28 yay votes, 0 nay, and 1 absent in the transcript. Senators asked clarifying questions about whether the agency would operate centers or contract with private providers; the sponsor confirmed the latter.

Why it matters

By codifying a process for third‑party on‑site childcare inside state facilities, HB167 could enable agencies to offer more convenient childcare options for employees, potentially improving workplace retention and reducing commuting burdens. Implementation details — procurement practices, contracting standards, and oversight — will be important to follow.

Provenance: Senate floor transcript Feb. 9, 2023 (Senator Escamilla presentation and Q&A).